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I have often felt that I cheated my children a little. I…

“I have often felt that I cheated my children a little. I was never so totally theirs as most mothers are. I gave to audiences whatbelonged to my children, got back from audiences the love my children longed to give me.” quote by Eleanor Roosevelt
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“I have often felt that I cheated my children a little. I was never so totally theirs as most mothers are. I gave to audiences whatbelonged to my children, got back from audiences the love my children longed to give me.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

She feels she gave her children’s talents to the public, receiving love in return, but regrets not fully belonging to them.

In simple terms: She shared her children’s gifts with audiences, gaining love but feeling distant from them.

Key Takeaway

Balance personal sacrifice with family presence.

Themes

parenthood artistry public life self‑sacrifice

Mood

reflective nostalgic

Type

personal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • performing arts
  • family gatherings
  • public speaking
  • career decisions
  • parent‑child bonding

Key Concepts

legacy identity reciprocity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one give to the world without losing closeness to family?
  • What boundaries protect personal relationships?
A Different Perspective

Public acclaim may not substitute intimate family bonds.

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